A harrowing incident in Okmulgee County, Oklahoma, has gained national attention as a man was abducted, tied up, and forced to jump off a bridge twice. The ordeal, which took place on June 24th, 2024, has left many questioning the motives behind the crime.
The Initial Abduction
The victim, Braden (full name not disclosed), recounted his terrifying experience to News 4. According to court documents, the situation began when Braden’s ex-girlfriend contacted the police, reporting that her brother and another man had kidnapped Braden and possibly killed him. Braden had been spending time with friends, identified as Sean Mooney, Jason Lawson, and Brianna (last name not provided), when the events took a dark turn.
From a Casual Outing to a Sinister Plan
The day started innocuously enough, with Mooney suggesting a trip to the lake. Braden agreed and joined Mooney on the drive, not suspecting what was to come. As they drove along Highway 56, they stopped at a river bridge in Okmulgee County.
Braden described how Mooney, who was driving, suddenly exited the truck, walked around to Braden’s side, and pointed a gun at him. Mooney then demanded that Braden jump off the bridge. When Braden refused, Mooney allegedly struck him in the face with the gun and forced him to jump while Lawson acted as a lookout.
A Desperate Struggle for Survival
Braden’s first jump from the bridge was not fatal, which seemed to surprise his captors. After realizing that Braden had survived, Mooney and Lawson reportedly escalated their efforts. They taped Braden’s mouth, hands, and feet, rendering him almost completely immobilized. The men then drove to a second bridge, the Deep Fork River Bridge, and threw Braden into the water below.
In a desperate struggle for his life, Braden managed to break free from his restraints while in the water. He swam to the shore and hid in the woods, watching his captors from a distance. Braden later described how he felt during these moments, stating that his thoughts were focused solely on survival, even as his body was in immense pain from the injuries sustained during the fall.
The Aftermath and Recovery
After hiding in the woods for some time, Braden eventually dragged himself to a nearby road, hoping to find help. He was discovered by passersby and taken to a hospital, where he was treated for his injuries. Braden had suffered significant trauma, including a collapsed lung, which required him to have a chest tube inserted for five days. Doctors explained that the 20-foot drops from the bridges punctured his lung, leading to the collapse.
Arrests and Legal Proceedings
Following the incident, police launched an investigation that led to the arrest of Sean Mooney, Jason Lawson, and an unnamed third accomplice. Authorities were able to track down the gun that was allegedly used in the crime, further solidifying the case against the suspects. The three individuals have been charged with kidnapping, along with several other charges related to the incident.
Lingering Questions and the Need for Answers
Despite the arrests and ongoing legal proceedings, many questions remain unanswered. Braden expressed his confusion and frustration, stating that he still does not understand why he was targeted. “I really want to know the purpose of it. Why they did it. The clarification behind it,” Braden said during his interview.
A Community Shocked
The shocking nature of the crime has left the local community in disbelief. The Okmulgee County Sheriff’s Office has not yet provided additional details on the case, despite multiple attempts by reporters to obtain further information. The case continues to unfold, and the motivations behind the crime remain unclear.
Braden’s story serves as a chilling reminder of the unexpected dangers that can arise even in seemingly ordinary situations. As the legal process continues, the community, along with Braden, waits for answers and justice for the traumatic events he endured.
